2010 Subaru Forester review

In its first full redesign since the 2003 model year, the Subaru Forester has moved closer to the mainstream than some fans might have hoped it would. The old model's boxy charm has been toned down, and what's left is a compact SUV whose driving dynamics are on par with some of the nimbler players in this segment. A few Forester diehards may cry foul, but I suspect the changes will widen the car's appeal to the market in general. The SUV remains as practical as ever, but now boasts enough refinement to merit serious consideration from anyone shopping the latest Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.

Trim levels include the 2.5X and 2.5X L.L.Bean, along with turbocharged 2.5XT and 2.5XT Limited versions; click here to see a side-by-side comparison with the 2008 model. Subaru's full-time all-wheel-drive system is standard. I drove a number of configurations both on- and off-road at a press event in Southern California.

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Head restraint adjustment
1) Head restraint 2) Release button Both the driver’s seat and the front passenger’s seat are equipped with head restraints. The head restraint should be adjusted so that the center of the ...

Center console box (rear)
The center console box has a two-layer structure consisting of an upper compartment and a lower compartment. Upper compartment 1) Upper compartment lock release Pull up the upper compartment l ...

Climate control panel, audio panel, instrument panel, console panel, and switches
Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the climate control panel, audio equipment, instrument panel, center console, combination meter panel, and switches. NOTE Do not use organic solvents such as ...